Adjusting to an assisted living community takes time and might be more challenging than you first thought. We’re not just talking about your parents’ emotions; relinquishing your caregiving responsibilities might give you feelings of worry and guilt.
It’s common for adult children and their parents to struggle with their feelings when arranging a new living situation, plus the moments during and after the move. However, The Retreat at Alameda team tells new residents and families that this change for the better can actually strengthen familial bonds.
If your loved one is moving or has just moved to a senior living community, you may be concerned about their happiness and ability to thrive there. Staying involved is good for everyone, and there are many ways to provide help for Mom in assisted living, independent living, or memory care.
Don’t take a backseat during this journey; you can continue being a key, loving part of her life.
Retiring to an Assisted Living Community Combats Loneliness
A retirement community and assisted living community have one thing in common: Seniors get to live amongst their peers. At The Retreat at Alameda, residents enjoy modern, private apartments and shared common spaces like our restaurant-style dining room. Picture your loved one living at home, with a half-empty refrigerator, heat-and-eat food, and solitary mealtimes. Then, compare that to them sitting at a table with friends, enjoying fresh, healthy, chef-prepared meals.
That’s only one on-site amenity found at communities offering assisted living. In retirement, don’t your parents deserve a life of ease? You deserve a break, too, and the ability to pursue your own passions without the burden of constant, unpredictable caregiving.
We get it: This is a life-changing transition, not to be taken lightly. That’s why we’re sharing five tips to help Mom and Dad thrive in assisted living.
1. Take Time Finding the Right Assisted Living Community — And Involve Them in the Process
This cannot be done hastily and involves research, visits, and touring prospective communities.
You’ll want to understand the available living options, the caregiving team’s experience, and the services and support provided.
Write down questions like these, bring them, and take detailed notes:
- How will you personalize a care plan to meet my parents’ needs?
- How does your pricing work?
- How many floor plans do you have?
- Are pets allowed?
- What are your on-site amenities?
- Are there regular events to encourage socialization and friendship?
- What health and wellness services do you offer?
It’s best to tour communities with your parent, but they might resist that. Try going on your own; take plenty of photos. Once you have chosen a favorite, have an open discussion with your mom or dad. Our team is happy to offer tips to guide you through these important conversations.
2. Visit When Possible, and Call (Or FaceTime) When Not Possible
The Retreat at Alameda welcomes family member and friend visits; these folks often join their parents for meals and activities. Yet we know that frequent visits aren’t always possible, especially when loved ones live far away. When you can’t stop by, phone calls provide connections and help for moms in assisted living — she’d love to hear from you.
- Phone calls are appreciated when you can’t visit but still want to communicate. Learn their new schedule and set up times for regular calls.
- Texting can sometimes feel disingenuous. It’s harder to convey emotions, and it may be more difficult for them to read. But if they’re agreeable, use texting as a backup; attach pics.
- For some, video conferencing apps like FaceTime are better than phone calls. Help them set it up if needed; their grandchildren and others can join in on these meetings.
3. Decorate Their Space to Be Reminiscent of Their Previous Home
Retiring to an assisted living community doesn’t mean that your mom or dad will be stuck in a generic apartment. And when they feel comfortable in their room, they’ll have a sense of ownership. As you move your parent in, think of ways to make the space feel like home.
A sense of familiarity will provide a solid foundation for your parent. Consider the things they enjoy; perhaps knitting, watching sports, or gardening. Then, find ways to incorporate their passion into their room. You could set up a designated space for them to knit, hang a tapestry of their favorite football team, or bring a few easy-care plants.
Include their favorite bedding, cozy blankets, coffee mugs, photos, and other comfort items. Avoid cluttering things up, and avoid small rugs that could become tripping hazards. Remember to let them choose things, within reason; there will be less space, and safety must be prioritized.
4. Order Them Their Favorite Food
Having food you enjoy is a comfort — especially during changing times. Your mom or dad will love having some goodies on-hand as they’re adjusting to their new living space, even if they’re using the community’s culinary services.
There are several ways you can get food to your loved one in an assisted living community:
- Ask for a list, get the ingredients, and drop them off yourself.
- Order food delivery through apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Shipt or Instacart.
- Prepare home-cooked treats for them and drop them off; these should be ready to eat.
Everyone appreciates food delivery, and we know it will brighten your parent’s day. You can also take them out to eat; there are countless senior-friendly restaurants in Phoenix.
5. Encourage Them to Make Friends and Be a Part of the Community
The Retreat at Alameda residents sometimes get so busy that they forget to call their sons and daughters! That can be a good thing; friendships enrich their lives, prevent loneliness, and provide support and companionship.
Our caregivers encourage residents to seek out events and entertainment within the community, and you can, too. We have beautiful outdoor spaces, a movie theater, a salon, and a café. On top of that, our seniors enjoy daily programming with events like workshops, fitness classes, game nights, and live entertainment.
Your Support Will Help Mom and Dad Thrive in Assisted Living
A private space to live in, a community full of friendly residents and compassionate caregivers, and amenities and activities improve the lives of older adults. But staying present as a family member, advocate, and support system will significantly smooth this transition.
Soon enough, you won’t need to feel overwhelmed from offering help for Mom. Assisted living communities like The Retreat gradually take over the heavy lifting so you can return to your other responsibilities and leisure pursuits. And if they’re not calling as often, they’re likely busy enjoying themselves!
We Help Seniors Feel Right at Home Right Away
The Retreat at Alameda allows seniors and family members to thrive with caregiving and wellness support, senior-friendly resources, and daily programming. Our residents benefit from services promoting their independence and dignity; you’ll have that peace of mind you’ve hoped for. Contact us today to arrange a tour, and we’ll take it from there.
